FLUID Diversity Mentoring Programme Launch 2013
Posted: 24th May 2013
The launch of the second year of FLUID Diversity Mentoring Programme, which officially marks the beginning of this pan-professional scheme, took place at RIBA, in London, on Tuesday evening (21 May 2013).
The FLUID, Diversity Mentoring Programme is an innovative scheme developed by RIBA’s Architects for Change (AfC) forum, and the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to address the retention and development of talented practitioners from diverse backgrounds for management and leadership roles in the built environment.
After a warm welcome from RIBA President, Angela Brady and AfC Chair, Danna Walker, Project Champion and Chair of Women in Architecture, Clare Devine, delivered the Key Note Address ‘Retaining and Progressing Talent’ to a full house. This was followed by participant presentations on Taking Part and the presentation of award certificates to first year mentees.
Speaking at the launch Angela Brady said: “I believe we must provide support for our talented individuals from a range of diverse backgrounds. Mentoring as an essential tool in creating the diversity that our industry needs, which is an invaluable experience for both mentors and mentees, in enabling both to gain enrichment and develop new skills.” She went on: “ The Fluid Diversity Mentoring Programme is an excellent initiative creating opportunities for all to invest in future practitioners and I wish everyone taking part in this worthwhile programme every success and enjoyment of the process. Encourage others to follow.”
The project has been developed in response to evidence gathered on diversity by CIC, AfC, Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), the Government’s Fair Access to the Professions Report, the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s Race Discrimination in the Construction Industry Inquiry Report in addition to other reports. It will focus, but not exclusively so, on women, black and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds and include students, the newly qualified, junior managers, senior practitioners and beyond, as well as sole practitioners hoping to expand their business.